Dlinza pinwheel description

The exceptionally striking Dlinza pinwheel (Trachycystis clifdeni) immediately stands out for the unusual whorl of bristles that radiate out from the edge of its shell, somewhat resembling the pinwheel firework after which it is named. The fragile, almost translucent pale-brown shell is a spiral shape with up to five whorls, sculptured with widely spaced axial riblets (2).

Species found in a similar habitat

Dlinza pinwheel status

Dlinza pinwheel threats

The Dlinza Forest is officially protected and is under the control of Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife (1)(3). However, the forest’s location within an urban environment does give some cause for concern. Furthermore, the Dlinza pinwheels' very limited distribution means that it is highly vulnerable to the damaging effects of extreme stochastic weather conditions and climate change (1).

Dlinza pinwheel conservation

The fact that Dlinza Forest is an officially protected area, supported by an enthusiastic local community, does confer a degree of protection to the Critically Endangered Dlinza pinwheel. Nevertheless, the small and exposed nature of its home means that this rare and fascinating snail remains somewhat helpless to the changing world around it (1). More research into the ecology and behaviour of this small but captivating species may help unearth valuable information to help guide appropriate conservation action and bring the diminutive ‘pinwheel’ back from the brink of extinction.

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